A group of Kanak independence supporters have been gathering every evening at 7pm in Place de la République in Paris since May 13th, following the vote by the National Assembly to expand the electoral roll for provincial elections. On May 22nd, around fifteen supporters gathered at the central statue, some carrying Kanak flags in solidarity. Mina Kherfi, a member of the Solidarité Kanaky collective, organizes the daily gatherings to show support for Kanak independence and to educate the public about the complex situation.
Each person present at the gathering has their own reason for attending. For Mina, it is important to come together publicly to show support for the Kanak independence movement and to engage with passersby, explaining the situation to those who may not understand. Pablo Lalie, 28, came to the gathering wearing a Kanaky t-shirt to alleviate his frustration at not being in Kanaky himself. He expresses anger at the daily reports of gunfire in Kanaky and is supported by others chanting “Free and independent Kanaky”.
Christian Fizin, 28, explains his presence at the gathering as a need to come together with others to support the cause. For him, it is a form of therapy to share the experience with fellow supporters. He believes the current situation in Kanaky, described as “insurrectional” by the High Commissioner in New Caledonia, is a sad failure of the peaceful decolonization process that France had previously demonstrated. Despite having moved to Paris for studies, Christian remains dedicated to supporting Kanak independence.
Christian, who sees his move to Paris as a sacrifice, is saddened to leave the island where he was born. He emphasizes that the Kanak people will never give up their desire for independence, comparing it to the resilience shown by the French during the Second World War. The sentiment of independence is deeply ingrained in Kanak culture, and he believes it is comparable to the French resistance against occupation during the war.
For supporters like Christian, being present at the gatherings in Paris is a way to stay connected to their Kanak identity and show solidarity with those fighting for independence. Despite the physical distance, they remain committed to the cause and view the daily gatherings as a form of support and therapy. By coming together each day at Place de la République, these supporters hope to raise awareness about the situation in Kanaky and push for a peaceful resolution that respects the Kanak people’s desire for independence.
